As a Stockbridge rental property owner, you know the importance of using images and videos with your listings and advertising efforts. But not everyone is comfortable behind the camera. And poorly shot photos can actually turn away potential renters. Today, we’ll offer beginner tips for taking and incorporating incredible photography into your marketing.
1. Work with What You Have
Incorporating great photos doesn’t mean you have to compromise your budget. You don’t have to drop thousands to invest in an expensive camera to produce beautiful images. Today’s smartphones have great camera features that capture digital files that work well online. Digital SLR cameras are fantastic to use if you have one. Just make sure that before you begin your photoshoot, that you clean off your lenses. There are also some helpful real estate apps you can download, to help you take and organize your property photos. Videoshop is one such app and allows users to download a logo, pictures, and videos for automatic compilation.
2. Start Outside
Start outside and try to capture street-view perspectives of your Stockbridge rental property. These images will help capture your property’s curb appeal in one picture. Posting this image with your online listings will help potential renters feel invited to see more, much like would if they were driving by in person. Avoid taking photographs of any eyesores, including poorly manicured neighbor yards. It’s usually best not to take pictures of vehicles in the drive, either. And as a bonus tip, consider adding hanging or potted flowers to a front door area or porch to bring vibrant color to your image.
3. Photograph Each Room
You may only use a portion of the photos you take with online property listings. But always go above and beyond in creating a portfolio of images of every room. Interested applicants may ask to see additional pictures, and you’ll have plenty to share. Shoot every bedroom, bathroom, den, dining area, kitchen, laundry room, foyer, patio, etc. Take wide shots at eye level, trying to center a focal point in each. And if you’re in doubt about the quality of each picture, take another one from a different angle to compare. You can pick and choose which images work best when you get back to your computer.
4. Staging & Lighting Matters
If your Stockbridge rental property is vacant, it may be hard to make an empty space look inviting. To help bring a warm feel to each image, you can incorporate staging techniques. The use of fresh flowers on countertops or in window sills can brighten an image. Natural light matters, too. So, as you move through the space, keep the light at your back to keep the photos bright. If there is furniture in the given room, consider adding colorful accent pillows on a couch or modern drapes over a window. Pose your laptop and mug on a kitchen table to create that “lived-in” look. Potential renters will identify with those images and hopefully see themselves living in the space.
5. Keep a Fresh Portfolio Ongoing
Waiting until you need a fresh photo of your space can be inconvenient, especially if you have tenants currently living in your property. Instead, be proactive about seasonal initiatives to take pictures, whether you need them or not. And should you make significant improvements to the property, including upgraded appliances, new fencing, or smart home tech installation, be sure to take photos of those, as well.
Once you’ve created an impressive listing for your Stockbridge rental property, you’re ready to add those stunning and beautiful photos. And if you need help with developing your portfolio of images, let us help! Having a property management partner means always having the best pictures and videos of your property to use with your listings.
